Fedora styles and places to buy

With winter upon us, I am trying to expand my wardrobe with a couple more fedoras.

I already own one decent winter one, 100% wool in the style that I like:

As you can see I like the style with the center dent in the front, and I suppose what could be called a narrow c-crown. From my avatar, you might have guessed I like the Neal Caffrey look, and from what I have seen on the show, this is the style of hat he goes with. Now after shopping around a while, I have found it fairly difficult to find a good one in this style that is within my price range, basically as cheap as possible, absolutely no more than $50, as I am a poor college student. I am going to check out a few thrift stores and the local TJ Maxx, but I also wanted to check here and see if anyone knew of a good retailer, either online or in store. I am in Raleigh, NC, and am familiar with the surrounding suburbs.

I also wanted to get your take on this style, which I wear with slacks and polo or a button up, something at least a little dressed up. I know fedoras vary in style, so this is why I ask. I personally like the look of this one the best, but I also want to hear other opinions.

For under $50? I don't think so. OP, a good fedora is fur felt, not wool, and they cost ~$150 and up new for the likes of Stetson and Dobbs. Check out www.bencrafthats.com. For knowledge of all things fedora, check out www.thefedoralounge.com. Posters there also sell used hats.

Hmmm, you like what we at the Lounge call 'stingy brim'. That's pretty much what guys your age are wearing. Akubra is currently the best hat made in a factory, especially for the money. However, you won't get one of theirs for $50. Spread their website to your relatives for Christmas. Either the Hampton or the Whippet should be what you're looking for.

I understand the want to be frugal as a student, however a good hat can last you a life time and is well worth the investment. If you have one you can wear, be patient, save, and then, once your hat budget is bigger, buy a nicer hat that when your children or friends ask you about your hat fifteen years down the road, it was more than just a fashion statement.

Thanks for the info guys. I'll start saving up for a nice one, that will probably be the best thing for me to do. It seems like I don't really fit in here very well, since I can't afford the good brands. Oh well, I'll graduate and get a real job soon enough.

It seems like I don't really fit in here very well, since I can't afford the good brands.

Not true. We have everything from die-hard thrifters to guys with closets full of bespoke on here. Wool fedoras don't last, however, and can't even be worn in the rain. Check out FL and Ebay for used hats. As Sarge mentioned, the Akubra is probably your best bang for the buck in a new hat.
Here's the Hampton for about $120 US shipped although it appears to be on back order: http://www.everythingaustralian.com.au/shopexd.asp?id=533

Not true. We have everything from die-hard thrifters to guys with closets full of bespoke on here. Wool fedoras don't last, however, and can't even be worn in the rain. Check out FL and Ebay for used hats. As Sarge mentioned, the Akubra is probably your best bang for the buck in a new hat.
Here's the Hampton for about $120 US shipped although it appears to be on back order: http://www.everythingaustralian.com.au/shopexd.asp?id=533

I'll check that out, thanks! I can save up for something around $100, and if it lasts a lifetime then it will have been well worth it.